Abstract This paper examines the key sides of the argument regarding the effect of the depreciation of the US dollar. It also looks at the outlook for the future and the effects on the US and global economies. The paper investigates the hypothesis that the depreciating dollar will help to rebalance the trade deficit, resulting in a stronger overall global economy.
Table of Contents:
Understanding Dollar Depreciation Dollar Depreciation and Global Competitiveness
What does the Future look like?
Factors that Could Affect the Outcome
Conclusion
From the Paper "From the standpoint of increased demand for goods, it can be argued that the depreciation of the dollar is actually good for the economy. However, when one considers the increase in commodity prices, it would appear to put a pinch on the wallets of the average American citizen. Rivens, (2004) indicated that the current trade deficit was nearly 5% of the economy, using this as a basis for a gloomy outlook. However, this is actually a decrease from the record 7% in 2005, which was not mentioned. Increases in demands for US products were a key factor in the ability to reduce the debt. Extra funds were used to offset the debt. Therefore, the 5% reported by Rivens was an improvement of the past several years."
Abstract This paper examines how dollar depreciation is thought by many to be a good method of increasing output, investment, and employment, while at the same time helping to reduce the current account deficit. It analyzes the effects of a weak dollar on output in merchandising industries as well as in the aggregate, investment, employment, inflation, and the balance of payments. Theoretical models, as well as empirical data, are used to come to the conclusion that depreciating the dollar is harmful to the U.S. economy.
From the Paper "One argument is that dollar depreciation relative to other currencies will increase output and profits for firms that export goods. The simplest form of this argument states that a weaker dollar will make American exports comparatively cheaper and therefore, foreign consumers will demand more U.S. exports. This increased demand for exports will increase output for American firms. For example, say the dollar depreciates relative to the euro. Where consumers could once buy $1.10 for one euro they can now buy $1.20. "
This paper evaluates Briggs and Stratton's accounting polices and examines how the company's accounting policies affect the firm's key success factors.
4,050 words (approx. 16.2 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 109.95
Abstract This paper explains that, as with most firms, Briggs and Stratton has instituted accounting policies, which enhance its financial standing; these accounting policies affect virtually every item on the company's financial statements, including revenues, expenses, and inventory. The author points out that Briggs and Stratton does a good job of revealing its accounting policies and exceeds GAAP standards for disclosure; however, it appears that Briggs and Stratton may be underestimating certain expenses, including warranty and depreciation expenses and costs of goods sold, which appear to be temporarily depressed due to LIFO liquidation and adjustments in the use of inventory cash flow models. This paper relates that one of the most important keys to success for a company is being able to make a profit; therefore, many of Briggs and Stratton's accounting policies, such as inventory policies, including cash flow models that affect the cost of goods sold and depreciation expenses, affect its reported profit.
From the Paper "Briggs and Stratton does have significant flexibility in its assets and liabilities accounting policies. For instance, instead of a combination of FIFO and LIFO it could use FIFO or weighted averages. Using FIFO would result in higher reported net income. In addition, FIFO inventory accounts are the closest to replacement costs, which may make it easier for management to forecast raw material costs. Instead of using straight-line depreciation, the company could use accelerated depreciation to reduce tax costs. In addition, there is a lot of flexibility in estimating life expectancy of fixed assets. Increasing the estimated life span would decrease depreciation expense. However, if the company over estimates the life expectancy of an asset, it may have to take a large write off when the asset is decommissioned."
Abstract This paper discusses the ability of the government to take property based on the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution. The paper reviews whether it is efficient for the government to declare a piece of property to be a wetland without compensation. The author believes that, as with takings, the government should provide compensation equal to the amount money by which the land was depreciated.
From the Paper "There has been significant controversy about whether or not land has been rendered useless in one such type of regulations called zoning ordinances. One such ordinance is defined in section 301 of the Clean Water Act, which makes it illegal to deposit fill materials into "navigable waters" (including wetlands) without a permit. It is important to protect our wetlands, because they serve several purposes that benefit society as a whole; they provide us with protection against erosion and flooding, water filtration and wildlife habitats."
This paper examines the concept of depreciation and its use in the financial management of organizations: Methods (straight line, declining balance, etc.); calculation procedures; effects; advantages and disadvantages under economic conditions.
3,600 words (approx. 14.4 pages), 11 sources, 1982, $ 127.95
From the Paper "It is the purpose of this research to examine the concept of depreciation and its use in the financial management of organizations. The findings of this examination are presented in this report in separate discussions of:
1. Methods of depreciation.
a. Straight line.
b. Declining balance.
c. Sum of the years digits.
d. Production units.
e. Working hours and
f. Acceleration concept.
2. Calculating procedures for the several methods of depreciation. ... "
Abstract The paper reveals that the Krispy Kreme company's annual reports present a strong company with strong financial highlights. The paper looks at the corporation's depreciation costs, value of their stock and the continuously ascendant trend in both cash flow as well as income capable of paying up their debts. The paper discusses the management, which is formed of highly skilled executives and notes that an important risk facing Krispy Kreme shareholders is the management's determination to commit to long-term success. The paper then explains how the accounting managers at Krispy Kreme must evaluate and limit this risk from several perspectives.
From the Paper "Krispy Kreme Doughnuts is a chain of doughnut stores founded in 1937 and based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The company has been met with both success as well as shortages, but along the years has managed to stay on top and became an international brand. "Krispy Kreme's greatest asset is their image and brand name. These are essential for attracting new customers and retaining old ones. Krispy Kreme's competition is limited to non-existent because they have been successful at differentiating themselves from all other doughnut retailers" (Diab, 2002). The company's annual reports present a strong company with strong financial highlights."
Abstract The CEO of The CD Rack has contacted The C-Team (a local consulting firm) asking for recommendations on reporting and valuing various assets. This paper examines how the C-Team discusses and gives justifications of each of the policies and shows how the policies will support The CD Rack in meeting their business goals. It explains that The CD Rack is an up and coming, start-up retail company that sells CDs from every music genre imaginable. The CD Rack also sells accessories associated with CDs such as CD storage cases and storage units, and accessories for cleaning and protecting CDs.
Inventory Policy
Capitalization Policy
Depreciation Depreciation Methods
Conclusion
From the Paper "A variety of cost-flow assumptions are available for determining the cost of goods sold and the cost of maintaining inventory on hand. Note the word "assumption". Companies make certain assumptions about which goods are sold and which goods remain in inventory. This is for financial reporting and tax purposes only and does not have to agree with the actual movement of goods. The only requirement is: The total cost of goods sold plus the cost of the goods remaining in ending inventory for financial and tax purposes is equal to the actual cost of goods available (Inventory Cost Flow Assumptions, n.d.). Cost of goods sold is a figure reflecting the cost of the product or good that a company sells to generate revenue, appearing on the income statement as an expense unto itself, also referred to as "cost of sales." "
This paper focuses on the understanding of the housing market, discussing the price of housing and sudden changes in the prices - so as to explore the sustainability of the argument that there exists a housing bubble that is about to burst.
Abstract In this article, the writer outlines how demand and supply analysis can be used to analyze the housing market, especially in wake of the fact that there is now increased speculation of a housing crash as prices begin to depreciate rapidly within the housing market. With these current changes on the market, the writer notes that it becomes somewhat useful to analyze whether the housing bubble is about to burst, or if other markets are affecting the activities within the housing spectrum. The writer argues that the housing bubble is not going to burst since there is no bubble - and changes in the housing prices are due to changes in market demand and supply conditions.
Outline:
Statement of Problem - Thesis Statement
Introduction
What Has Been Causing The Price of Housing to Appreciate and Depreciate So Rapidly? - An Economic Perspective
Housing Price Appreciation - A Bubble or Changes in Market Conditions?
A Brief Look at the US Housing Policy and Market
Conclusion
From the Paper " With the demand and supply for housing analyzed, then the concept of the equilibrium within the housing market can be examined. It is clear that changes within the economy will affect the price of housing; each of the relevant changes will be analyzed below, so as to test the thesis statement presented. The changes in supply and demand are causing housing prices to increase, even though the change in quantity is unsure. During the historical period analyzed, factors that caused supply and demand to change based on figure 1 and figure 2 were associated with the appreciation of housing prices. Hence the appreciation was due more so to market conditions rather than a bubble due to speculation. A thorough examination of the processes that affect supply and demand is presented in the section below."
Abstract This paper explains that the accounting policies of Intel Corporation, the world's largest semiconductor chip maker, demonstrate equity interest in a range of private and public companies, mainly for strategic reasons and to improve earnings in weak years. Whereas, the accounting policies of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD), Intel's chief competitor, show evidence of a big-bath scenario. The author uses a variety of accounting procedures to compare the ratio analysis, levers of conservatism and earnings management of these two companies. The paper includes 18 tables and has endnotes instead of a bibliography.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Ratio Analysis
Table 1: EC Ratio Analysis
Table 2: Ratio Analysis
Table 3: Advanced DuPont Model
Levers of Conservatism
Revenue Recognition
Depreciation Table 4: PP&E and Depreciation & Amortization
Allowances for Accounts Receivable
Table 5: Allowances for Accounts Receivable
Product-Warranty Reserves
Table 6: Warranty Reserves
Inventories
Table 7: Inventories
Stock-Based Compensation
Table 8: Stock-Based Compensation
Table 9: Historical Volatility of Stocks and Implied Volatility of Stock Options
Retirement Benefit Obligations
Table 10: Retirement Benefit Obligations
Earnings Management
Operating Leases
Table 11: Operating leases at Intel
Table 12: Discount Rate Calculation for AMD
Table 13: Operating Leases at AMD
Off-Balance-Sheet Liabilities
Impairment of Intangible Assets
Subsidiaries
Table 14: Timeline of Events for AMD's Investment in Spansion Inc
Table 15: Intels' Equity Investments as per December 29, 2007
Restructuring Charges
Table 16: Restructuring Charges and Offsetting Gains at Intel
Repurchase of Common Stocks
Table 17: Number of Shares and EPS at Intel
Conclusion
Table 18: Consolidated Statements of Income and Balance Sheets at Intel and AMD
From the Paper "Intel uses useful lives of 2 to 4 years to depreciate its equipment (which includes machinery), while AMD uses useful lives of 2 to 6 years for equipment depreciation purposes. In Table 4 below we can see that Intel's estimated total average life of PP&E is 10 years in the last three years, while AMD's fluctuates between 5 and 9 years. (The estimated total average life is calculated by dividing the gross PP&E by the depreciation expense.) The generally longer average total life at Intel can be explained by the fact that it has a higher proportion of buildings in its PP&E mix (e.g. 33% vs. AMD's 14% in 2007)."
This paper examines the real reasons behind the debt crisis faced by developing countries, focusing on the structural reasons for their continuing debt before turning to possible solutions.
Abstract Reasons for international debt are discussed with examples brought from Mexico and Brazil, oil exporters and oil importers; debt rescheduling; debt relief and first-world aid; the International Monetary Fund and the affect the IMF has had on poor countries. The two major methods of international reserve creation: the mining of gold and the acquisition of reserves in the form of key currencies are discussed along with their problems. Recent structural adjustment and debt relief are also examined, as well as the inability of poorer countries to pay their scheduled debt service and the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries Initiative and its problems. This leads to a discussion of macro-economic adjustment.
From the Paper "The current climate of recession has highlighted the reasons for raising the calls for poor country debt relief. It is difficult to believe claims made by creditors that they cannot afford further debt relief. Canceling effectively unpayable debts owed by the poorest countries may turn out to be a sensible policy for all creditors. As well as the strong moral argument for debt relief, there could be sound financial grounds for doing so to stimulate the global economy and promote growth."
Abstract The following paper discusses the balance of payments in the International Monetary System and examines how countries raise needed capital for development and infrastructure projects. In addition the future and factors of global investment, both public and private are discussed.
From the Paper \"The IMF was given the responsibility to promote the growth of world trade by setting rules for the maintenance of fixed exchange rates and by making loans to countries that were experiencing balance of payments difficulties. (Balance of payments is a bookkeeping system for recording all payments that have a direct bearing on the movement of funds between a nation, both private and government sectors, and foreign countries.) As part of its role of monitoring the compliance of member countries with the rules, the IMF also took on the job of collecting and standardizing international economic data, managing the world monetary system and facilitate international payments. Under the system, exchange rates were supposed to change only when a country was experiencing large persistent deficits or surpluses in its balance of payments.\"
Overview of individual & corporate investment. Discusses Tax Reform Act of 1986, tax shelters, depreciation, capital gains, acquisitions and appraisal.
2,250 words (approx. 9 pages), 14 sources, 1989, $ 79.95
From the Paper "The purpose of this research is to provide an overview of the value of real estate investment. For this overview, individual and corporate real estate investments are considered separately.
INDIVIDUAL INVESTMENT IN REAL ESTATE
The Tax Reform Act (TRA) of 1986, specifically, and other federal laws have changed the rules under which real estate in-vestments must function. A primary characteristic of real estate investments in the contemporary environment must be the earning of an income on the investment through the operation of the venture (Tax Management, Inc., 1987, p. 18.5). A real estate investment may no longer be designed solely for the purpose of gaining tax write-offs.
While the TRA of 1986 will reduce taxes for high income
earners, a need still (...)"
Abstract This paper discusses Morgan Stanley Dean, Witter, which merged in the mid-1990s, that offers stock trading services, issues the Discover card and participates in financing initial public offerings. This paper reports that the company divides its operations into three primary product areas: Securities, asset management and credit and transaction services. The author reviews the auditing process of the merger by pointing out that the auditors did not conduct an audit to determine whether the information provided on the financial statements was correct or accurate, but instead audited the statements to determine whether they were created using accepted accounting principles.
Table of Contents
Introduction
History
Key Points of Annual Report
Products and Services
Audit Information
Inventory Management and Depreciation Management's Letter to Shareholders and Outlook
Conclusion
From the Paper "Dean Witter was formed in the mid-1920s in San Francisco; Morgan Stanley was formed in the mid-1930s in response to the Glass-Steagall Banking Act which placed restrictions on the banking industry. The two firms competed throughout the twentieth century with Dean Witter often taking major steps several years ahead of Morgan Stanley (for example, Dean Witter gained a seat on the New York Stock Exchange well before Morgan Stanley. Mergers and acquisitions characterized Dean Witter's growth while Morgan Stanley generated growth from within. Both companies were early implementers of computers and electronic data processing within their organizations. Dean Witter, a publicly traded company since 1972, was acquired by Sears in 1981; Morgan Stanley went public in 1986, the same year that Dean Witter launched the Discover card on a nationwide basis. In 1992 and 1993, Sears spun off Dean Witter, and the two companies merged in 1997 with headquarters in New York."
Abstract This six-page senior level paper presents a financial review of General Motors. Our analysis of the company's financial strength will be based on the company's total cost of capital, bonds, stocks and depreciation.
Abstract This paper looks at Japan's economic status, with an emphasis on its automobile industry. The paper looks at the problems faced by Japan's automobile industry and analyzes the different strategies available for approaching those problems. This overview is then followed by a look at Japan's economic scene and both the advantages and disadvantages to investing there.
From the Paper "Between April of 1990 and July of 1993, the yen "rose" from 158 yen per dollar to 106, a thirty percent rise in three years. Since Japanese wages didn't fall relative to those in the US, this meant that Japanese exporters, like Toyota, faced a comparable increase in their costs. In the North American market, this gave the Big Three a big competitive advantage, a replay of the situation of the late 1980s. This left the Japanese automobile exporters with three options: (1) to maintain current prices and allow for a significant decrease in profit margin; (2) to increase the price so as to maintain profit margins on car sales in the US or (3) to increase the price by less than the thirty percent change in order to maintain market share but with the result of minimally decreased profits."
